re-application for GC

[TBBKK052690]

All,
Looking for advice on how to re-apply for my GC. I voluntarily surrendered it a few years ago, at the local US Embassy whilst working overseas basically to legally be able to work in a foreign country without being liable for dual taxation on world wide earnings (in the USA and my overseas country). I originally qualified for the GC through marriage to my wife (US Citizen by birth). We are still married, and now we are possibly looking to go back to working in the USA after being away since around 2001. Can anyone tell me if I can re-apply, and if its a shorter or longer process than the first application process? Can I also do this from overseas or do I need to be in the US to do this?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[Harry Callahan]

Just re-apply. If they ask about your previous status, answer truthfully. A previous green card does not normally affect your chances on a new application unless your green card was involuntarily revoked. You can apply from abroad via consular processing:

A normal time frame for consular processing is 6-12 months from date of application to date of receipt of your immigrant visa. It's much faster than applying from within the US.

[rayb]

Direct Consular Processing (DCF) is usually available on a discretionary basis, the protocol of which varies by consulate. In some countries, the U.S. Embassy (or Consulate) requires proof of long-term residency by the petitioner (your husband). In other countries, DCF may be denied to almost anyone applying or not even available. You need to contact the Embassy in the country where you and your husband are currently residing to find out what the policy and requirements for DCF processing might be. It is true that DCF processing can be as fast as half the time it might take of processed Stateside.

--Ray B